Bilora tripods are made in Germany to typical precision standards and versatility. The Bilora 1135 Tripod with 1193 Panorama Head has a gray hammered metal finish that appears to be very durable. There are three leg extensions, which are loosened and tightened by twisting a rubberized locking collar. When one or more legs must be raised higher than normal, as when working close to the ground with the center column removed, each leg can be easily released from the normal locked position by pressing a spring-loaded lock. A 17-inch geared center column smoothly cranks up or down to provide the last minor height adjustments needed. Flat grips on the ends of the adjustment knobs on the tilt top are exceptionally easy to loosen and tighten. A quick-release plate attaches to the camera's tripod socket then can be easily dropped into a recessed socket on the top of the tilt top and locked in place. One leg has a rubberized foam cover for more comfortable carrying. The 1135 is suitable for use with camera equipment weighing up to 15 pounds. This versatile and rugged tripod was very simple to use and maneuver even with a large 35mm SLR and heavy telephoto lens attached.